AS OTHERS SEE IT

Has a 51st state found a patron?

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The notion of carving out a 51st state, Jefferson, from California’s northernmost counties has been the talk of the North State since the Siskiyou County supervisors declared their desire for a fresh start back in September. As a practical idea, it’s always seemed far-fetched.

At least one Californian, however, is thinking even more ambitiously. One new state? Why stop there?

Timothy Draper, a retired venture capitalist, announced that he is polishing the final details but plans to file an initiative seeking to break California up into six separate states.

Why six states? California, instead of two senators in Washington, would have 12 and thus more representation in Congress. Breaking up the “monopoly” of state government and creating competition would allow more innovative government and a “fresh start.” And smaller states would be more responsive to local needs.

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